May Project Status Update: Milestones Met and Momentum Building

Press Release

As we begin June, Vera Aqua Vera Vita is proud to share the latest developments from last month for our clean water projects in northern Peru. In Las Mercedes KM11, we're getting closer than ever to seeing a life-changing solution in motion. Meanwhile, in La Merced, we continued with essential water testing to help the community identify the best and safest long-term source of clean water. The work done in May lays strong foundations for what’s ahead, and we’re excited to keep building on this progress.

Las Mercedes KM11: Purchase Process in Motion

In May, our team made meaningful strides toward finalizing the purchase of the Water Tanker Truck—the core of Las Mercedes KM11’s clean water delivery system. Throughout the month, VAVV worked closely with the seller to negotiate and finalize the conditions of the truck’s purchase, reaching a few agreements such as the truck’s payment plan and intended delivery process.

In parallel, we continued active follow-up with the Regional Government of Piura (GRP) to advance the long-awaited Funding Plan Agreement, which has faced delays due to frequent personnel changes within the government. While the agreement is not yet finalized, VAVV remains in consistent communication to keep things moving forward.

On May 19, we collaborated with the community’s Clean Water System Committee (CWSC) to establish an initial water sale rate strategy, ensuring the system remains affordable, equitable, and sustainable once operational. Then, on May 23, public records were officially updated to show the current truck owner, clearing the way for legal transfer.

By the end of the month, on May 30, VAVV and the seller signed a Purchase Agreement, committing the seller to transport the truck from Lima to Piura to complete the transaction. This milestone caps off a month of careful planning and legal alignment in preparation for the truck’s official purchase next month.

Looking ahead, we’re hopeful that June will hold the official truck’s purchase and arrival in Piura, at which point we aim to complete the official title transfer in front of a notary, co-signed by representatives from both LMKM11 and VAVV. We also expect to complete final ownership and regulatory registrations, as well as finalize truck servicing, in the coming weeks, so the truck will be ready to begin water delivery.

La Merced: Water Quality Testing Brings Us Closer to a Clear Solution

This may also held important steps for our newest project community — La Merced. To help determine the most viable and safe water source for the community, our partner engineer from the University of Piura returned to the area twice this month to conduct key sampling.

On May 17, the engineer collected fresh samples from a previously tested well to conduct updated bacteriological tests. Later in the month, on May 31, the team collected new water samples from the nearby canal, which had previously been dry. The well continues to show promise as a clean and dependable water source, but analyzing canal water will provide a fuller picture of all available options in the area.

A partner engineer from the University of Piura is collecting samples to conduct bacteriological testing.

Canal near La Merced with discolored, brown and green water flowing slowly.

In June, we hope to receive full test results from both sources and share the findings with the community. Once all the data is in, the people of La Merced will help decide which water source will best serve their needs. If the well proves to be the right solution, we plan to conduct a pump test and geo-electrical survey to assess volume and identify the best drilling location.

Looking Ahead

Each of these steps—whether contractual, technical, or scientific—is crucial to our long-term goal: empowering communities to access clean, reliable water with dignity and independence. Las Mercedes KM11 is nearing implementation. La Merced is gaining clarity. And with your continued support, both are on their way toward a better future.

You can help keep this momentum moving.

We’re fundraising to raise $40,000 to directly fund the completion of the Las Mercedes KM11 clean water solution. Your donation helps fund the final stages of the community’s water delivery system. Consider a donation today — every gift brings true water and true life closer to reality!